People in a lot of companies get used to the annual raise at work - which is why it can be very frustrating when it doesn't come through. But sometimes, there might be something you can do to change that. Alternatively, it is possible that it was never in your hands.

While it is true that it is getting increasingly difficult to get raises for doing just what you were supposed to do, if this is a trend at your workplace, you might be expecting the raise. If you did everything you were supposed to do and then some, you may be confused why the managers signing your paycheck haven't made over a raise to you. It may also mean trouble for you if your salary cannot keep up with your lifestyle.

US News thinks there are four major reasons why maybe you didn't get that annual raise.

1. You weren't at your best this year.

As difficult as this might be to admit, maybe it isn't them, it's you. Maybe you were lazy, had to go away for emergency family businesses too often or just simply weren't at the top of your game this year.

To solve this problem, figure out what is expected of you at work. Find out what your boss expects from you and then do it. Try having a meeting, or if possible, a casual lunch and talk about what you could be doing better. Not only could you possibly get some interesting, useful advice, your boss will appreciate your proactive behavior.

2. Maybe you were supposed to ask.

It's true, asking for money is probably the most difficult thing in the world, especially for people with an ounce of decency in them. But at work, sometimes professionalism can extend to actually asking for a raise.You don't have to be tacky or desperate about it, there are ways to ask for a raise and still stay classy. You might have to prepare a case for yourself and be tactful about it, but it might be just the thing the bigwigs signing your checks are waiting for.

Find out how much you're worth, have pointers prepared for why you are valuable to the company - and be polite. Always be polite.

3. Maybe it has nothing to do with you.

It is possible that your managers are being stingy, or tightfisted. Alternatively, it could mean the company is in trouble and the budget can't afford it. In that case you could try asking for non-financial benefits like vacation days or medical benefits.